Week 2

CorelDRAW 2018 (64-Bit)

Assignment Description

In this assignment, we transitioned to 2D design using CorelDRAW 2018. The task was to create precise geometric designs for functional products: a "Mobile Phone Stand" and a "Coaster". This task focused on developing vector graphics ready for laser cutting, balancing both functional dimensions and aesthetic appeal.

Objectives

The objective of this assignment is to acquire fundamental skills in vector drawing and its applications in digital fabrication, by:

Mastering CorelDRAW 2018 Interface: Navigating essential tools and setting up the workspace for laser cutting.
Using the Contour Tool: Creating professional outlines and aesthetic borders or offsets for the design.
Managing Basic Shapes: Merging and intersecting geometric shapes to construct the mobile stand's body.
Dimensional Accuracy: Adjusting measurements in millimeters to ensure perfect fitting during assembly.
Production Readiness: Distinguishing between cutting lines (Hairline) and engraving paths.

Implementation Steps

Step 1: Workspace Setup

Selecting the XY Plane and starting a "Create Sketch" for the base

Step 2: Base Geometry

Adding a rectangle and defining its dimensions precisely in millimeters to fit the phone size and ensure design stability.

Step 3: Corner Rounding

Converting the sharp corners of the rectangle into curves by entering the required radius for a streamlined and safe design.

Step 4: Bottom Center Circle

Drawing a circle at the midpoint of the rectangle’s bottom edge to define the pivot point between the stand and the base.

Step 5: Back Minus Front (Digital Subtraction)

Using the "Back Minus Front" feature to subtract the circle from the rectangle, creating the lower base cavity.

Step 6: Node Smoothing

Utilizing the "Smooth Nodes" tool to refine the cut angles into smooth curves, ensuring high manufacturing quality.

Step 7: Joint Design (Male/Female)

Designing the interlocking slots using small, precisely dimensioned rectangles to ensure a sturdy assembly of the stand parts.

Step 8: Stand Base Construction

Repeating the previous steps to design the horizontal base, ensuring all joints and slots match perfectly.

Step 9: Text to Curves

Creating a new sketch on the hammer faces and adding the desired "Text".

Coaster Design Project

This project was executed using CorelDRAW 2018, starting with the creation of a geometric base (square or rectangle) with rounded edges for a sleek finish. The "Contour Tool" was then applied to create parallel offsets that add aesthetic depth to the design. To ensure high-precision laser cutting, the internal fill was removed and the outlines were set to "Hairline" thickness. Finally, custom text or logos were centered and aligned, preparing the piece for surface engraving to produce a final product that perfectly balances functionality and digital craftsmanship.

Exporting (DXF)

Exporting the final design as a (DXF) file, selecting it as the preferred format to ensure precision and compatibility with laser cutting machines, while maintaining proper naming and storage location.

Technical Archive: Design Files & Full Gallery

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse